Follower of Catherine Read – Portrait of Elizabeth Hamilton, Duchess of Hamilton & Argyll

Offered for sale is this remarkable 18th-century oil on canvas portrait that, based on its style and subject matter, appears to be a follower of Catherine Read. It depicts Elizabeth Gunning, the renowned Duchess of Hamilton and Argyll, a prominent figure in 18th-century British high society.

A Remarkable Historical Portrait

The original portrait of Elizabeth Gunning, painted in pastel by Catherine Read circa 1769, is housed in Inveraray Castle, the seat of the Dukes of Argyll. This exquisite portrait, showing the Duchess in the same attire, had widespread influence, resulting in at least eight recorded copies, some attributed directly to Read, with one even housed in the Royal Collection in London, as documented by the art historian Neil Jeffares.

In addition to these copies, mezzotints were made of the pastel portrait, including one by John Finlayson in 1770, and several others by Robert Sayer and Robert Laurie around the same time. These mezzotints provide insight into the portrait's popularity and the impact of Read's work on contemporary visual culture.

A Previously Unknown Copy

This specific oil on canvas is a previously unrecorded copy of the Read pastel, unlisted by Jeffares and likely dating to the same period—18th century, possibly contemporary to Read’s work, or near contemporary. The portrait features an interesting detail: unlike the original pastel, this version is surrounded by a feigned oval, bringing it closer to Finlayson’s mezzotint (see image). This suggests that the artist may have been working from a mezzotint, making it a fascinating example of artistic reproduction from the 18th century.

Although the attribution is “Follower of Catherine Read” rather than “After Catherine Read,” it’s worth noting that Read herself was well-known for being a skilled copyist—she didn’t just replicate her own work, but also the works of other artists, including the famed Sir Joshua Reynolds, working in both pastel and oil.

Whether this copy was created by Read herself or by a contemporary artist remains open for discussion, especially since old restoration work on the face makes it difficult to definitively attribute the work to her. Regardless, this portrait is a valuable piece for further research and analysis.

Condition:

• The painting has undergone restoration, including an old repair to the face (see images for details).
• A professional cleaning would help restore the vibrancy of the piece.
• The frame is in a distressed state but may be original to the painting.

Dimensions and Weight:

• Painting size: 67.5 cm (26.5 inches) high by 50.5 cm (20 inches) wide (without frame).
• Frame size: 87.5 cm (34.5 inches) high by 70.5 cm (28 inches) wide.
• Weight: 6.97 kg (14.5 lbs) with frame.

The Sitters:

Elizabeth Gunning (1733–1790) was a woman of extraordinary beauty and high social standing. Born in Hemingford Grey, Huntingdonshire, she moved to Ireland at age three. Her beauty and grace quickly made her one of the most sought-after women in 18th-century British society. In 1752, she married the 6th Duke of Hamilton, with whom she had three children. After his death in 1758, she married John Campbell, Marquis of Lorne, who later became the 5th Duke of Argyll.

Elizabeth was created Baroness Hamilton of Hambledon in her own right in 1776 and served as Lady of the Bedchamber to Queen Charlotte from 1761 to 1784. She was later appointed Mistress of the Robes in 1778. A woman of great influence, Elizabeth was also one of the most portrayed women in Britain during the 1750-70s.

About Catherine Read:

Catherine Read (1723–1778) was a renowned portrait artist, particularly famous for her work in pastel. Born in Dundee, Scotland, Read came from a Jacobite family and studied in Paris and Rome before establishing herself in London in 1754. Gaining the patronage of Queen Charlotte in 1761, Read became known for her ability to capture high society figures in both pastel and oil.

She exhibited her works in London at the Society of Artists, the Free Society of Artists, and the Royal Academy. In 1771, she moved to India to paint British officers, staying there until 1777, and tragically died while returning to Britain in 1778.

Why This Piece Is Special:

• Historical Significance: A direct connection to the famous portrait of Elizabeth Gunning, one of the most iconic women in 18th-century British society.
• Artistic Merit: A wonderful example of Flemish portraiture and 18th-century artistic reproduction, capturing the historical and social context of the period.
• Collector’s Item: With royal connections and potential links to Catherine Read, this portrait is a rare and significant piece for collectors of 18th-century portraiture and Flemish art.

This Follower of Catherine Read portrait of Elizabeth Gunning is not just a work of art—it is a tangible link to an important figure in 18th-century British history. A captivating and timeless piece that deserves further research and will undoubtedly be a standout in any collection.